Former Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Henry Kokofu, has expressed support for the calls to declare a state of emergency in order to address illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
He stated that if the government’s efforts against galamsey are genuinely effective, there should be visible improvements in the condition of the nation’s water bodies.
While speaking at the Institute of Economic Affairs’ seminar series focused on Ghana’s natural resource management, Mr. Kokofu emphasized that the current circumstances require immediate and resolute action.
“He who calls for the band must dance to their tunes. The current president initiated this, and therefore, he must proceed with it. As a person knowledgeable in natural resources, I can see the severity of the situation and the ongoing issues.
“Agriculture is on the decline, the cocoa sector is also facing downturns, and the essential resource that sustains life — water — is being contaminated. So, why would one not feel alarmed or concerned?” he remarked.
The discussion surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency has gained momentum in recent weeks, particularly after President John Dramani Mahama suggested during a media event that such a measure could be contemplated if all other options have been exhausted.
However, his comments have faced backlash from various segments of the public, especially from civil society organizations and groups that are directly affected by the harmful impacts of galamsey.
